The Philippines participated for the first time in the annual International Public Speaking Competition hosted by the English-Speaking Union (ESU), a worldwide organization of countries where English is either an official or major language of communication. Two student representatives from Manila were chosen in an inter-university competition held under the auspices of the newly organized ESU-Philippines chapter headed by noted writer Alfred Yuson. The two, Mahar Mangahas (left) of Ateneo de Manila University and Ryan KC Buenafe (right) are shown in photo with ESU director-general Valerie Mitchell and a female competitor from Georgia. Mrs. Mitchell expressed admiration for the speaking and debating capabilities of the two Filipino students. The Philippines is set to become a full-fledged member of the ESU next year.